Football stronger than war: Iran draw with New Zealand at 2026 World Cup despite visa issues and conflict
2:2 in Los Angeles, stands in yellow white green colours, Mexicans cheering for Iran, and a Salvadoran fan calling it "a victory for all" — the first tournament with 48 teams and three host countries delivered one of the most exciting draws.
As reported by CCTV+, Iran's participation in the FIFA World Cup, which was complicated by the ongoing Iran US war and other obstacles including visa issues, received support from fans across the country. On Monday, Iran and New Zealand met in Los Angeles for their first Group G match. The stadium stands were filled with fans in yellow white green colours, passionately supporting Iran.
Among them was Andrés Domínguez, a Mexican fan living in Los Angeles. He came to support Iran, believing that passion for football transcends borders. "For us Mexicans living in Los Angeles, football is part of our culture, it's in our blood. We grew up with it. So being able to watch the World Cup right here in our city is incredible. Today we are cheering for Iran. Let's see how it goes, but we are enjoying every moment. Mexican energy spreads everywhere — Los Angeles, New York, Canada, Mexico. It never fades," Domínguez said.
The match ended in a 2:2 draw and was widely recognised by fans as one of the most thrilling games of the tournament so far. Francisco Umaña, a Salvadoran football fan, said: "It was an intense match — it ended 2:2. Iran was behind but didn't give up and eventually levelled the score. That's how it ended. It was a beautiful game. In the end, we are all winners — whether Mexicans or anyone else. We got a great match." Juan Betancur, a Mexican fan, added: "We enjoyed it because both teams gave it their all — they knew it was their moment."
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off on June 11. This tournament is the largest ever: a record 48 teams, and for the first time three host nations — Mexico, Canada and the United States. Despite the war and visa hurdles, Iran took the pitch and showed character, coming back from 0:2 down. Fans from Mexico, El Salvador and beyond united in support, proving that sport remains a space where politics recedes.
Football does not ask for a passport, it does not care about sanctions, and it does not require a visa. It simply gives you a ball, a pitch, and 90 minutes of pure competition. The Iranian team, which had to overcome not only opponents but also bureaucratic barriers, proved that character is stronger than circumstances. And fans from Mexico and El Salvador chanting for Iran showed that football is a language everyone speaks. 2:2 on the scoreboard, but in the hearts — a draw between war and peace, between politics and humanity. And as long as the ball keeps rolling, hope remains alive.
